It's Not What I Expected 3/15/13

Published On: Mar 15 2013 01:16:24 PM CDT

" Subway has long promoted its foot-long sandwiches. So when customerscaught the company serving up shorter sandwiches, they took theircomplaints to Facebook, grabbing media attention and even outragingStephen Colbert.The Colbert Report"We have been five-dollar footwronged!"Consumer Reports' Tod Marks says that's not the only product that'sdisappointing consumers.The Allergy Luxe Premium Bed Bug Mattress Protector says it provides"luxurious fabric protection against bed bugs, dust mites & allergens."Tod Marks Consumer Reports "But if you turn the package over and read the fine print at the bottom,it says 'the manufacturer makes no claim that this product will preventor inhibit human exposure to insects, allergens, mold or other microbialmatter.'"This packaging for the Cuddly Sherpa Throw shows cute lambs. But lookcloser! This throw is made from "100% polyester."Looking for products "made in America" can be confusing as well.Tod Marks"Just because you see a symbol like an American flag doesn't mean it wasAmerican-made at all."The American Glove Company says "We Glove The USA." But look below- made in Vietnam! And you'd think these dish towels made by AmericanMills were also manufactured in the U-S. Wrong! They're made in China.Unfortunately, confusing words and images aren't necessarily forbiddenby the Federal Trade Commission - responsible for monitoring deceptiveproduct claims.Tod Marks"What would a reasonable consumer think, they ask. And even there it's notclear cut."That means reading labels closely is a good habit to get into.."

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